Auto-Train Corporation stock certificate 1974 (Florida)

Now the Amtrak Auto Train service! Fun company logo representing the auto racks they used on railcars. Issued and cancelled. Dated 1974. Measures approximately 12 x 8 inches.

The Auto-Train Corporation (incorporated 1969) was a American railroad that operated a unique motorail service for passengers and their automobiles from 1971 to 1981. While the corporation eventually declared bankruptcy, its primary route was so successful that it was later revived by Amtrak and remains one of the carrier's most profitable services in 2026.

Original Route:
The service debuted on December 6, 1971, running daily between Lorton, Virginia (near Washington, D.C.) and Sanford, Florida (near Orlando).

Unique Concept:
Passengers traveled in luxury passenger cars—including dome cars and sleepers—while their personal vehicles were carried in enclosed bilevel auto racks on the same train.

Amenities:
Early service was known for its "Night Club" cars, live entertainment, buffet dinners, and feature films included in the fare.

Unsuccessful Expansion:
A second route launched in 1974 between Louisville, Kentucky, and Sanford failed to attract enough riders and drained company finances.

Accidents and Costs:
Several major derailments (notably in 1976 and 1978) caused significant equipment damage and led to skyrocketing insurance premiums.

Final Departure:
The Auto-Train Corporation ceased all operations in late April 1981.

Amtrak Revival:
After a two-year hiatus, Amtrak revived the Lorton–Sanford service in 1983 under the name Amtrak Auto Train.

Product descriptions and images

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